Hidden Valley Preserve
Hours:
120 Bee Brook Rd, Washington Depot CT 06794 Hours
About Hidden Valley Preserve
Hidden Valley Preserve is a great nature preserve with a good trail system offering lots of variety for return visitors. Trails range from easy to difficult in one place, with a peaceful and serene forest filled with ferns. The hikes are mostly shaded, which is helpful on hot days. The trail system includes a wide, cultivated path for an easy 1.5-mile loop. Hikers will cross two bridges, including a newer suspension bridge that is beautiful and cool. There are two trails on either side of the river, with paths that are sometimes narrow. Watch for tree roots and rocks which can be tripping hazards. The way in is downhill, so the walk out is a moderate but steady uphill. There are a few places to pull over and get a closer look at the water's edge. It is a popular spot for forest walks but, due to parking, never gets too crowded. Parking is available in the main lot and another lot several hundred yards down, with a sturdy foot bridge connecting to the trails; either lot gets you to the same places. Visitors note a lack of signs at intersections telling hikers where and how far the next attraction is located. It is recommended to take a picture of the trail map before hiking, as there is no cell service for some carriers. The preserve is dog-friendly, with many dogs on the paths and access to the river. It makes for a fantastic day trip, especially when combined with a nearby vineyard.
Most Recent Reviews
August 2025
Another great nature preserve in CT. A good trail system. Lots of variety for return visitors. We hiked white circle trail to yellow circle trail loop. Its 1.5 miles and easy. Trail was wide and cultivated. You cross 2 bridges including the newer Henry Thoreau suspension bridge.
July 2025
It was my first time here in 2025 & I've lived in Connecticut since 2012! I will certainly be back. Very peaceful & serene. It was way too hot, so thankfully, most of the hikes are shaded. My dog enjoyed the river a lot, and he's my primary hiking buddy, so if he doesn't like it, we don't come back often.
June 2025
Overall, this was a great short hike, and the bridge was cool. The only issue was parents letting their kids run around unsupervised and creating havoc in an ideally peaceful environment.
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